‘Cleopatra’ movie remake might have found its director

Denis Villeneuve is in talks to direct the upcoming “Cleopatra” film remake, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This French-Canadian filmmaker directed “Blade Runner 2049,” a movie that is yet to be released but has already earned positive reviews.

Villeneuve might be chosen as the director for Sony Pictures’ “Cleopatra,” a remake of the classic movie of the same title back in the 1960s.

It is a movie that tells the story of Cleopatra, a prominent historical figure in Egypt who ruled the country during the period of its the Ptolemaic Kingdom.

Classic movie

Cleopatra has been depicted in various media as one of the few female pharaohs who ruled the then patriarchal kingdom in Egypt. One of the best depictions of this ruler was made during the 1963 production of the movie directed by Joseph Mankiewicz.

The classic movie featured actress Elizabeth Taylor who portrayed the lead role, Richard Burton as the queen’s Roman lover Mark Anthony, and Rex Harrison as Julius Caesar. Also part of the cast were George Cole, Hume Cronyn, Cesare Danova, and Kenneth Haigh.

The original “Cleopatra” film won four Oscars in the categories of Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, and Best Effects. It also received a nomination for Best Picture in the Academy Awards, as well as a nod for Best Motion Picture from the Golden Globes.

The new movie It will be based on the bestselling biography by Stacy Schiff, The Hollywood Reporter added. Titled “Cleopatra: A Life,” the biography focuses on depicting her as a powerful female ruler and “shrewd negotiator.”

Movie director

Denis Villeneuve, a possible director for the remake, has been known for his movies such as “Cosmos,” “Next Floor,” “Polytechnique,” “Prisoners,” “Sicario,” and “Enemy.” He has made a name out of the science fiction film genre.

“Blade Runner 2049” is one of his upcoming projects. It is a movie which features Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford.

There is no confirmation yet from Sony Pictures as to whether Villeneuve will officially direct the biopic film. Aside from him, there were other directors whose names were associated with the biopic such as James Cameron and David Fincher, the entertainment news website added.

Award-winning actress Angelina Jolie is one of those eyed to play the role of the Egyptian queen. Meanwhile, “The Day The Earth Stood Still” screenwriter David Scarpa will write the screenplay.